2018 Speedway New and Views

“Kings of Speed - Ascot Raceway 1957 – 1990”
by Howie Zechner

J.C Agajanian Jr. standing in front of Ascot R

Hosted at the California State University Northridge, College of Arts, Media and Communications by Exhibition Curator John Parker the “Kings of Speed - Ascot Raceway 1957 – 1990” honors the place, the promotion and competitors that were the powerhouse of West Coast dirt track racing.

J.C Agajanian Jr. standing in front of Ascot Raceway picture

Mention Ascot Raceway and you suddenly have everyone’s attention. Of course, every well respecting dirt track racer, fan and sponsor knows about the famous dirt half mile and the countless two and four wheel champions it produced during its 33 year history. Many went on to compete in the Indy 500, Sprints, Midgets and a full assortment of four-wheel disciplines. Flat Track, TT, Motocross, Speedway, two wheeled competitors were even larger in numbers as the track groomed some of America’s most famous motorcycling legends.

Wearing his trademark Stetson hat J.C Agajanian overlooks the Ascot 1/2 mile and TT Track

No one had a clue of the cult status Ascot would obtain when J.C. Agajanian opened the facility in 1957. A wheeler and dealer Aggie was blessed with the gift of gab and excellent promotion skills. That coupled with three sons who loved the facility as he did they carried on even after JC passed in 1984. Running events five nights a week till the track closed in 1990 the name Agajanian has become motorsports royalty that lives to this day.

Chris Agajanian with Journalist Howie Zechner

Many honor that time with websites, Facebook groups and parties. Annual get together are as common as the magazine, book, movie and television programs that deal with the history and celebrities Ascot generated. Car champions Parnell Jones, A.J. Foyt, Mario Andretti, Rick Mears, Al Unser, along with motorcycle racers Kenny Roberts, Dave Aldana, Skip Van Leeuwin, Sonny Nutter, Gene Romero and Stunt rider Evil Knievel are just a short list that leaves out countless more that deserve to be named and celebrated.

Allan Seymour tells tales to Fran Cody, Mike Konle and Keith Mashburn

I attended the August 27 “Kings of Speed” reception with former actor and racer Billy Gray. A special gathering as Chris and Jay Agajanian were on hand along with a multitude of racing legends. Live music, light refreshments and drinks, it was a festive gathering despite the 104 degree outside temperature.

Jack Crone (background) - Courtney Crone and Trailblazers Hall of Fame recipient Scott Autry

The “Kings of Speed” exhibition displays that Ascot history with large selection of vehicles, motorcycles, pictures, posters, racer gear, trophies, signs, video and paintings. Generously loaned by the Agajanian family, private collectors and photographers many are one of a kind and seldom if ever displayed in public. Having Chris and Jay there to share that history made the day that much more entertaining and factual.

Not really going to mention a lot of names cause its always embarrassing when you leave someone out but I will give a special short list shout out to a few that I spent time with. Scott Autry, Bill Cody, Mike Konle, Dennis Kanegae, Allan Seymour, Rod Lake, Jimmy Oskie, Keith Mashburn, Courtney and Jack Crone, are just a few of those special people.

Billy Gray – Rod Lake – John Parker – Jimmy Okie

Thanks need to be extended to Curator John Parker, Gallery Director Jim Sweeters, Exhibitions Coordinator Erika Ostrander and the Agajanian family. Their hard work and preparation really shine and is appreciated. Recognition to artist Tom Fritz for his original Ascot paintings of Eddie Wirth in his Sprint car and Dave Aldana racing his BSA also need to be acknowledged. They are spectacular so be sure to view them when you visit.

Tom Fritz paintings of Dave Aldana racing his BSA

The “Kings of Speed” exhibition runs till October 13 so drop by and enjoy this very special exhibit. Admission is free but there is a small $8.00 parking charge. For “directions and parking information” visit the gallery website at: www.csun.edu/artgalleries

See all 185 photos from the exhibition on Facebook at: Facebook Speedwayzar

Thanks for Listening
Howie Zechner
Trailblazer
Motor Press Guild Journalist